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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Marc Mayo

Crystal Palace caretaker describes ‘strange’ first day as two candidates emerge to replace Patrick Vieira

Paddy McCarthy has admitted his first day of training as Crystal Palace caretaker boss was “strange” after being parachuted in to temporarily replace Patrick Vieira.

The Eagles have been linked with a sensational swoop for former boss Roy Hodgson after Vieira, who replaced the 75-year-old, was sacked on Friday.

Next up are league leaders Arsenal on Sunday and McCarthy said he will attempt to build the team towards an “aggressive style out of possession” during his short stint at the helm.

“Under strange circumstances, the lads showed good energy and enthusiasm,” he told the club website.

“We tried to implement some ideas, but we’re obviously mindful that they’re still recovering from the game the other night at Brighton, and we’re preparing for Sunday against Arsenal.

“It was good to get on the grass. The boys were excellent. They received our messages really well, so I was pleased coming off the pitch.”

Multiple reports name Hodgson as in talks with Palace while former Borussia Monchengladbach boss Adi Hutter has also been linked with the job.

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